The Xth Sense (XS) is a free and open source based technology; as such, its free distribution is an integral aspect of the research. In this workshop participants build their own XS biosensor and learn how to generate interactive music from the muscle sounds of their bodies.

The workshop offers an hands-on experience and both theoretical and practical training in gestural control of music and bodily audiovisual performance, deploying the brand-new biosensing technology Xth Sense. Developed by the workshop teacher Marco Donnarumma within a research project at The University of Edinburgh, Xth Sense is a framework for the application of muscle sounds to the biophysical generation and control of music and video. It consists of a low cost, DIY biosensing wearable device and an Open Source based software for capture, analysis and audio processing of biological sounds of the body (Pure Data-based). Muscle sounds are captured in real time and used both as sonic source material and control values for sound and video effects, enabling the performer to control audiovisual media
simply with his body and kinetic energy.

Forget your mice, MIDI controllers, you will not even need to look at your laptop anymore. The Xth Sense biosensor was designed to be easily implemented by anyone, no previous experience in electronics is required. The applications of the Xth Sense technology are manifold: from complex gestural control of audio and video sampling and synthesis, through biophysical generation of music and sounds, to kinetic control of real time digital processing of traditional musical instruments, control of external vjing software and more.

Participants will be introduced to the Xth Sense Technology by its author and led through the assembling of their own biosensing wearable hardware using the materials provided. Next, they will become proficient with the Xth Sense software framework: all the features of the framework will be unleashed through practical exercises. Theoretical background on the state of art of gestural control of music and new performative instruments will be developed by means of an audiovisual review and participatory critical analysis of relevant projects selected by the instructor.

Eventually, participants will combine hardware and software to implement a solo or group project to be performed during the final open jam session. At the end of the workshop, participants will be free to keep the Xth Sense biosensors they built and the related software for their own use.

The workshop is open to anyone passionate about sound and video art. Musical background and education does not matter as long as you are ready to challenge your usual perspective on audiovisual performance. Composers, producers, sound designers, musicians, field recordists are all welcome to join our team for an innovative and highly creative experience.
No previous experience in electronics or programming is required, however participants should be familiar with digital music creation and live visuals.

Participation is limited to 8 candidates. If the number of participants is not enough the workshop will not take place.

All the necessary material for the sensors will be provided, but participant must bring a solder and tin/lead. We will work either on Linux or Mac OSX (system have to be 10.6 or newer. If you don’t have access to any of them, please download a live distribution of Pure:Dyne at: http://puredyne.org/index.html